Republic of Moldova and Romania to Strengthen Military Cooperation (video)

CHISINAU, February 5, 2018 — The cooperation between the Romanian Army and the Army of the Republic of Moldova is important for our country’s security and has to remain as strong, or even to advance, because there is aspiration, there is potential and, most important, there is political will.

The statement was made by Minister of Defense Eugen Sturza during a press briefing organized today on the occasion of the official visit of Minister of National Defense of Romania, Mihai Fifor, to Chisinau.

Eugen Sturza thanked the Romanian Government for the continuous support offered for the reformation, development, and modernization of the National Army of the Republic of Moldova. “Today, our country has got a professional army, capable to fulfill its missions, also thanks to Romania’s help”, specified Minister Sturza.

The Moldovan Defense Minister also appreciated the Romanian partners’ contribution to the development of the defense legal-strategic framework, educating 800 National Army service members in military institutions in Romania, as well as the training of Moldovan service members through participation in bilateral and multinational exercises alongside their Romanian colleagues.

Eugen Sturza mentioned the support offered by the Romanian Government in implementing many projects from which benefited citizens from all the regions of the Republic of Moldova, especially the “NATO Project on disposal of pesticides in the Republic of Moldova” that is managed by the National Army.

“Romania, as leader of the project, offered 850 thousand euros for repacking and disposal of pesticides from the Republic of Moldova. This contribution means a healthier and safer environment, without dangerous conditions for our citizens”, said Minister Sturza.

The Romanian Minister of Defense stated that the two countries will strengthen the practical cooperation not only through exercises, but also through education in the military academic sector and by offering expertise for the modernization of the Military Academy of Armed Forces “Alexandru cel Bun”.

Mihai Fifor appreciated Moldova’s contribution to the NATO mission in Kosovo and specified that this is a proof of our country’s involvement in the stabilization of the regional situation that is appreciated by all the allies.

The Romanian official also encouraged the active involvement of the Republic of Moldova in the actions conducted at Alliance level, especially by continuing to implement the Defense Capacity Building Initiative (DCBI).

During February 4-5, 2018, Minister of National Defense of Romania, Mihai Fifor, is paying an official visit to Chisinau, at the invitation of Minister of Defense of the Republic of Moldova, Eugen Sturza.